CALDWELL, Idaho — As summer ends and the new school year begins, the Vallivue School District is making a big change: a complete ban on cell phones during school hours. Previously, students were allowed to use their phones during recess and lunch periods, but this year phones are banned entirely.
- The Vallivue School District is implementing a complete ban on cell phone use during school hours this year.
- The district explains, “While we value electronic communication and technology, personal devices can disrupt the educational process.” This stricter policy has raised concerns among students and parents about whether they will be able to stay in touch.
- The school district ensures that students can contact their parents through the school office and that parents can also contact their children through the office.
(Below is the transcript of the broadcast report.)
“I just don’t think it’s fair overall,” said Trevion Walker.
The end of the summer holidays and the beginning of a new school year often bring changes.
This year, the Vallivue School District is implementing a new cell phone ban that is causing concern among many students and parents.
Previously, school district policy allowed students to put their phones away and silence them during class, but allowed cell phone use during recess and lunch.
This school year, however, the Vallivue School District is making a significant change by banning cell phones altogether.
The district’s policy states:
“Vallivue School District No. 139 recognizes the value and importance of electronic communications, online presence, and innovative technology tools to enhance the learning experience and work environment in the district. However, the use of personal electronic communications devices by students during school hours can interfere with or interrupt the educational process.”
In contrast to the old regulation, the new regulation provides for only a few exceptions, which causes mixed feelings among many residents.
“I think we should focus more on how we can limit cell phone use and actually get students more involved in the classroom instead of keeping them on their phones,” said college student Trevion Walker.
“I can understand that people are used to instant communication, but you are in school. As a former teacher, I am sure teachers would appreciate it if classes were not disrupted,” said retired educator Ron Black.
Talia Walker, an eleventh-grader at Caldwell High School, is concerned about the impact the ban will have on students in the Vallivue School District and fears her own school in the Caldwell School District may follow suit.
“Everyone has a cell phone these days, and I know some people will say, ‘We didn’t have cell phones in my day.’ Well, people do now! I know there are phones at school to call the office, but there are only two office ladies. If a lot of parents call, it doesn’t work,” said Caldwell student Talia Walker.
When asked about her concerns if a similar ban were implemented in her district, Talia Walker said:
“It’s honestly a bit scary. I remember my first year of college, we had a very long lockdown because of a bomb threat, and if I hadn’t had my phone to text my mum and say ‘Hey, I’m OK’, it really weighs on you when your family doesn’t know if you’re OK or there’s an emergency at home,” said Talia Walker.
The district has reassured parents by sending them emails explaining that if students need to contact their parents, they can do so at the school office. Likewise, parents can reach their children by calling the school office.
